The 35th Medical Group’s CT scan is easily the largest scanning machine the 35 MDG owns at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 24, 2012. This $1.1 million technology was purchased last year and has increased patient diagnostics by recouping money and keeping patients on base rather than transporting them to off-base Japanese medical care facilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kenna Jackson/Released)
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Mike George, 35th Medical Group diagnostic imaging technologist, taps the IV vials prior to performing a CT scan at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 24, 2012. Technologists tap the cylinders filled with IV contrast and saline to get rid of any bubbles in the vials that could prove fatal to the patient. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kenna Jackson/Released)
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Emily George, 35th Medical Group diagnostic imaging technologist, prepares the CT scanner to perform a scan at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 24, 2012. The control pad manipulates the machine and allows George to position the patient appropriately into the machine. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kenna Jackson/Released)
A U.S. Air Force Airman prepares to stick an IV into a patient’s vein in preparation for a CT scan at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 24, 2012. There are two different types of CT scans; one involves an IV contrast and one does not. The IV contrast enhances the blood vessels and enables technologists to check for blood clots. The IV also allows the technologists to double check certain masses spotted in previous images, which could include cancer and other pathology. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kenna Jackson/Released)
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Emily George, back, 35th Medical Group diagnostic imaging technologist, observes a patient receiving a CT scan at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 24, 2012. To get a CT scan, patients must present a recommendation from their primary care doctor before calling to schedule an appointment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kenna Jackson/Released)
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Mike George, 35th Medical Group diagnostic imaging technologist, speaks to a patient through a speaker at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 24, 2012. The screen is part of the CT scan and presents images of the patient in real time. On this monitor, technologists have the power start and control the scan without being in the same room as the machine. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kenna Jackson/Released)
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Mike George, 35th Medical Group diagnostic imaging technologist, studies scans for anything to signify a patient’s health is threatened at Misawa Air Base, Japan, July 24, 2012. On this screen, the technologist is able to study the scans and control what parts of the body he wishes to see in 3D. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kenna Jackson/Released)
by Airman 1st Class Kenna Jackson
35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
7/24/2012 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- In a small room on the basement level of the base hospital sits the 35th Medical Group's computerized tomography, better known as the CT scan. Although this piece of machinery is easily the largest scanner and the most expensive piece of technology the 35 MDG owns, it does the base a huge service.
"We just got the CT scan sometime last year. Not only is it our largest and most expensive scanner, but it enables us to save money. Rather than paying to transport patients to off-base Japanese hospitals, patients can get the scan they need right here," said Staff Sgt. Emily George, 35 MDG diagnostic imaging technologist.
The CT scan is, by definition, a noninvasive medical test which is used by physicians to help diagnose and treat medical conditions. By combining special x-ray equipment with high-tech computer systems, the test produces multiple images of the inside of a person's body with extreme clarity, including internal organs, bones, soft tissue and blood vessels.
Although this machine is within reach to anyone in need of its technology, unlike getting a regular x-ray, patients can not just walk in and get a CT scan whenever it is desired. To get a CT scan, patients must present a recommendation from their primary care doctor before calling to schedule an appointment.
For more information on CT scans and appointments, call the radiology section at 226-6602.
